Day 4 of the Great 50 Days: Winners and Losers

Adapted from Act 1.21-26: Dear Jesus, The apostles gathered with about 120 people to replace Judas. They said, “’The replacement for Judas must come from the company of men who stayed together with us from the time Jesus was baptized by John up to the day of his ascension, designated along with us as a witness to his resurrection.’ Then they nominated two: Joseph Barsabbas, nicknamed Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed, ‘You, O God, know every one of us inside and out. Make plain which of these two men you choose to take the place in this ministry and leadership that Judas threw away in order to go his own way’ They then drew straws. Matthias won and was counted in with the eleven apostles.’

Help us this day to understand that You do not choose one person because he or she is better, rather you empower whomever you choose. Amen.

When I read this story I wonder how Joseph Barsabbas felt. Was he disappointed? Was he secretly glad not to have to be responsible? Then I think about how we react when we win or lose. Do we place too much emphasis on “winning.”

What do you think?